Junkyards in St. John's: Reviews, Benefits & Contact Info
Newfoundland and Labrador

Yes, some junkyards in St. John's, NL may offer higher payouts for cars based on factors like your car's make, model, condition, and location. To find the best offer, it's advisable to contact multiple junkyards in your area and compare their quotes. Additionally, you can explore junk car buyers that specialize in certain vehicle makes or have a reputation for offering competitive prices.

If you are planning on removing a part from a vehicle yourself, be sure to take precautions to avoid injury. Be aware of your surroundings and be careful not to overexert yourself. You should also ask the staff for assistance if needed. We recommend that you bring:

• Pliers
• Ratchets
• Wrenches
• Sawsall
• Screw drivers
• Hammer
• Impact driver
• Extensions
• Sockets SAE and Metric
• Breaker bar
• Penetrating Fluid

They usually have a wide variety of used and damaged vehicle parts available for sale, including engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, radiators, fenders, doors, hoods, and trunks. Junkyards may also have used tires, batteries, and other vehicle accessories available for sale.

Inspecting a used car or part before buying it is crucial to ensure you get value for your money. Here's a basic checklist:

1. Exterior Inspection:
   • Check for rust, dents, or scratches.
   • Inspect the paint for consistency and color match.
   • Look at the tires for tread wear and alignment.
2. Interior Inspection:
   • Check the upholstery, dashboard, and carpets for damage.
   • Test all interior features (radio, AC, power windows, etc.).
3. Mechanical Inspection:
   • Start the engine and listen for unusual noises.
   • Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle.
   • Test drive the car to assess how it handles.
4. Under the Hood:
   • Examine the engine for leaks, corrosion, or damage.
   • Check the oil level and its color.
   • Look at the battery for corrosion.
5. Documentation:
   • Verify the car's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
   • Ask for maintenance records and any history of accidents.
6. Parts:
   • For used parts, check for wear, damage, or missing components.
   • Confirm that the part matches your vehicle's make and model.
7. Price Comparison:
   • Research the market value of the car or part to ensure a fair price.
8. Ask Questions:
   • Inquire about warranties or return policies.
9. Vehicle History Report:
   • Consider obtaining a vehicle history report for a used car to check for previous accidents or title issues.
10. Expert Inspection:
    • If uncertain, have a trusted mechanic inspect the car or part.

Trust your instincts. If something feels off or you're unsure, seek professional advice or consider other options.

Some junkyards may require you to pay a small entrance or admission fee (usually a few bucks) in order to enter their facilities. With this money they can cover their administrative and maintenance costs and ensure that they receive customers who are truly interested in parts.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, a salvage yard may focus more on recycling and reselling parts.

Here are some tips on how to know if a junkyard is reputable:

• Check online reviews. This is a good way to get an idea of what other customers have experienced with the junkyard. Look for reviews that mention the junkyard's prices, customer service, and the quality of the parts they sell.
• Ask for recommendations. Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors to see if they have any recommendations for junkyards. You can also ask your local mechanic or auto body shop for recommendations.
• Visit the junkyard in person. This will give you a chance to see the junkyard's facilities and meet the staff. Look for a junkyard that is clean and organized. The staff should be friendly and knowledgeable.
• Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask the junkyard staff questions about their prices, the parts they have available, and their warranty policies. If the staff is hesitant to answer your questions or seems to be giving you vague answers, that's a red flag.
• Be wary of junkyards that offer to pay you in cash. Reputable junkyards will typically pay you by check or money order. If a junkyard offers to pay you in cash, it could be a sign that they are not a legitimate business.